Marseille was by far the most surprising stop of the cruise. I think it was because I had absolutely no expectations. I didn't know any famous landmarks, I didn't know what it was known for (other than bouillabaisse). It was just another stop in the south of France.
The old port is actually really nice. We took a little tourist train up the hill to the giant cathedral, Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde, which again was a good call because the uphill was pretty intense. Another very impressive religious building, another very impressive aerial view of a European port town. However, a little off shore on a tiny island, you could see the Chateau d'If, which was the inspiration for "The Count of Monte Cristo". I've never read the book before, but ironically it's been a part of several films I've seen a number of times (The Shawshank Redemption, V for Vendetta).
We didn't get to try the bouillabaisse, but I was able to do some shopping. It turns out that Marseille is known for olive oil soap. And, of course, I forgot about the Herbs de Provence. I know, it's just herbs, but these are actually from Provence!
"I've got my mind made up, man, I can't let go"
No comments:
Post a Comment